How reciprocity determines the choice of a partner for sex
The results of a new American study on speed dating (or “speed dating” as they are also called) show that testosterone levels increase significantly during romantic interactions with different interlocutors. And mutual sympathy causes a surge of hormones in both men and women.
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Scientific study by psychologists from Michigan
As an assistant professor of psychology at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor explains. “The findings suggest that there is a kind of “radar” for identifying the most attractive individuals of the opposite sex.” For now, however, it remains unclear whether people themselves know about this.”
The study involved 200 heterosexual men and women. They agreed to take part in several speed dates. In total, scientists studied about 2, 000 communication situations—about 10 for each participant.
Before the start of the experiment, each subject provided four saliva samples for hormone analysis. Two analyzes were performed one week before the surgical date. Two more blows were delivered immediately before and after the interaction.
Results obtained
The results obtained surprised the researchers. It turned out that testosterone levels did not increase when only one participant in the conversation felt sympathy. When the feelings were mutual, both men and women experienced a significant increase in testosterone. In other words, romantic attraction, even if present, was somehow not enough to affect hormonal levels.
Eli Finkel, lead author of the study, explains that, however, this is not entirely true. Indeed, representatives of the stronger sex have much more testosterone than women. However, the connection between increased concentrations of this hormone and social interaction is the same for both men and girls. Testosterone is associated with a strong sexual desire in both sexes.”
Read also: How to have sex with an HIV-positive partner safely?
If a person is diagnosed with HIV, this cannot but affect his relationships. There is always a risk that the virus can be transmitted to healthy people.
Why is reciprocity important?
“Over the past 50 years, biologists have often shown that testosterone levels rise when rabbits, monkeys and even male star animals are introduced to a new female. However, such jumps only occur when the animals are actually able to mate. In other words, when the female wants the same thing,” explains Finkel.
If you think about people, they rarely, if ever, marry without mutual consent. Your feeling of attraction to a new person or his affection for you is not the only guarantee of a successful sexual relationship with him. It requires mutual attraction.”
Is sex good for you? parasitologist about how partner choice occurs.
When we ask people to list the qualities they consider ideal in a potential partner, likability tops the list in most cases.
This is not surprising since it is the most common reason why people feel attracted to someone. On the other hand, even the most attractive partner is not attractive if his attitude is callous or borders on rudeness. At least as far as a healthy mind is concerned.
This desire is very strong in people, emphasizes Ellie Finkel. The very thought that someone might like us gives us pleasure.
And now we have physical proof that we like those who like us the most.”
How to find the ideal sexual partner. Sexual compatibility 18+.
